System and method for controlling lighting

ABSTRACT

A controller for controlling a plurality of lighting devices configured for wireless communications in a facility includes a data communications interface communicating with at least one of the devices. The controller further includes a control module configured to provide a control signal to the data communications interface for communicating to a transceiver associated with the device and for turning off the device according to an algorithm wherein the control signal is provided based on a time of day and/or a sensed condition relating to use of the facility. The transceiver reports device data to the control module to quantify a reduction in power obtained by controlling the devices according to the algorithm.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/240,805, filed Sep. 29, 2008, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.12/057,217, filed Mar. 27, 2008, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

FIELD

The field of the disclosure relates generally to reduction in energyusage. More specifically, the disclosure relates to systems and methodsfor intelligent monitoring, controlling and metering of lightingequipment in a facility.

BACKGROUND

This section is intended to provide a background or context to theinvention recited in the claims. The description herein may includeconcepts that could be pursued, but are not necessarily ones that havebeen previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwiseindicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art tothe description and claims in this application and is not admitted to beprior art by inclusion in this section.

According to the International Energy Outlook 2006, Report No.DOE/EIA-0484(2006) from the U.S. Dept. of Energy, the world's total netelectricity consumption is expected to more than double during theperiod 2003-2030. Much of the electricity is expected to be used toprovide industrial, institutional, commercial, warehouse and residentiallighting. Adoption of energy-efficient technologies can help to conserveelectricity thereby slowing the growth in both the “base demand” and“peak demand” components of electricity demand. Base demand is thesteady-state, or average, demand for electricity, while peak demandoccurs when the demand for electricity is the greatest, for example,during a hot summer day when electricity use for air conditioning isvery high. Reducing either type of demand is desirable, but a reductionin peak demand generally is more valuable because of the relatively highunit cost of the capacity required to provide the peak demand.

Many facilities (e.g. commercial, residential, industrial,institutional, warehouses, etc.) typically include (or are beingmodified to include) artificial lighting devices such as high intensityfluorescent (“HIF”) lighting fixtures that reduce the amount ofelectricity consumed in comparison to other less efficient types ofartificial lighting such as high intensity discharge (“HID”) lighting.Although HIF lighting equipment reduces the consumption of electricityrequired for operation, it is desirable to further reduce theelectricity consumed by HIF lighting equipment in a facility. Suchlighting devices are often configured for control using relativelysimplistic control schemes, such as “on” or “idle” during periods wherethe facility is regularly occupied, and “off” or “standby” when thefacility is regularly unoccupied (typically referred to as thefacility's “usage pattern”). It would be desirable to reduce consumptionof energy by providing a system and method to permit a power provider totrim or shed certain predetermined loads in cooperation with a facilityduring peak demand periods. It would also be desirable to reduceconsumption of energy during peak and off-peak demand periods by usingsensing and control devices to intelligently monitor an environmentwithin a facility to turn-off or reduce power to HIF lighting equipmentin the facility, when operation of the equipment is unnecessary,particularly during regularly occupied periods which often correspond topeak demand times for the supplier of the electricity (e.g. utilities,etc.).

What is needed is a system and method for reducing peak and off-peakelectricity usage in a facility by intelligently monitoring the need foroperation of HIF lighting equipment in a facility, and turning-off theHIF lighting equipment during periods when operation of the HIF lightingequipment is determined to be unnecessary, or when peak demand electriccapacity is limited and dictates a reduction in demand. What is alsoneeded is a system and method to reduce electricity usage during peakdemand periods by providing a signal from an electricity supplier to theHIF lighting equipment to turn-off certain equipment on an as-neededbasis (e.g. during unplanned or unforeseen reductions in capacity, etc.)according to a pre-established plan with the facility to accomplish peakelectric supply capacity objectives. What is further needed is a systemand method to reduce electricity usage during peak demand periods byautomatically providing a signal from an electricity supplier to the HIFlighting equipment to turn-off certain equipment, in accordance with apre-established plan with the facility, in response to decreasingcapacity margins during peak demand periods. What is further needed aresuitable sensors operable to monitor the need for operation of the HIFlighting equipment during peak or off-peak demand periods at variouslocations within the facility. What is also needed is a control deviceoperable to receive an indication of the need for operation of the HIFlighting equipment and to provide a demand-based control signal toturn-off such equipment during periods when operation of the HIFlighting equipment is unnecessary, or override the usage of suchequipment when peak demand capacity limitations dictate a reduction inusage. What is further needed is a control device that logs (e.g.records, tracks, trends) the time, duration and amount of electricitythat is “saved” by reducing the operation of such equipment, andprovides output data to determine the cost savings provided by theintelligent monitoring, relative to the facility's typical usagepattern. What is further needed is a system that communicates with apower provider to permit a user, such as a power provider, to “trim” or“shed” certain loads during peak demand periods by overriding thedemand-based control signals. What is further needed is a system thatprovides a data log of energy reduction (i.e. total reduction andreduction for individual devices) achieved by use of the system, both ona cumulative basis for a designated period of time, and on aninstantaneous basis for confirmation by a power provider.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a system and method thatpermits an energy user and/or a power provider to actively manage andreduce the energy usage in a facility required by HIF lightingequipment, particularly during periods of peak and off-peak demand.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an exemplary embodiment, a controller for controlling a plurality ofdevices configured for wireless communications in a facility includes adata communications interface communicating with at least one of thedevices. The controller further includes a control module configured toprovide a control signal to the data communications interface forcommunicating to a transceiver associated with the device and forturning off the device according to an algorithm wherein the controlsignal is provided based on a time of day and/or a sensed conditionrelating to use of the facility. The transceiver reports device data tothe control module to quantify a reduction in power obtained bycontrolling the devices according to the algorithm.

In another exemplary embodiment, a controller for controlling lightingin a facility provided by a plurality of lighting fixtures configuredfor wireless communications is provided. The controller includes a datacommunications interface communicating with at least one of theplurality of lighting fixtures. The controller also includes a controlmodule configured to provide a control signal to the data communicationsinterface for communicating to the at least one of the plurality oflighting fixtures and for turning off the plurality of lighting fixturesaccording to an algorithm wherein the control signal is provided basedon at least one of a time of day and a sensed condition relating to useof the facility, wherein the control module is further configured toquantify a reduction in power obtained by controlling the plurality oflighting fixtures according to the algorithm.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method for controlling lighting in afacility provided by a plurality of lighting fixtures configured forwireless communications is provided. The method includes determiningwhether to provide a control signal to at least one of the plurality oflighting fixtures according to an algorithm wherein the control isprovided based on at least one of a time of day and a sensed conditionrelating to use of the facility. The method further includes providingthe control signal to a data communications interface for communicationto the at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures. The methodyet further includes quantifying a reduction in power obtained bycontrolling the plurality of lighting fixtures according to thealgorithm, and storing indicia of the reduction in power in a memorydevice, displaying indicia of the reduction in power on an electronicdisplay, or storing indicia of the reduction in power in the memorydevice and displaying indicia of the reduction in power on theelectronic display.

In a further exemplary embodiment, a system for controlling lighting ina facility is provided. The system includes a plurality of lightingfixtures configured for wireless communications. The system alsoincludes a data communications interface communicating with at least oneof the plurality of lighting fixtures, wherein the at least one of theplurality of lighting fixtures communicates with at least a second ofthe plurality of lighting fixtures via wireless communications. Thesystem yet further includes a control module configured to provide acontrol signal to the data communications interface for communicating tothe at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures and for turningoff the plurality of lighting fixtures according to an algorithm whereinthe control signal is provided based on at least one of a time of dayand a sensed condition relating to use of the facility. The controlmodule is further configured to quantify a reduction in power obtainedby controlling the plurality of lighting fixtures according to thealgorithm.

Other principal features and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the followingdrawings, the detailed description, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will hereafter be described withreference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals denotelike elements.

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of a system for monitoring,controlling and metering a plurality of HIF lighting fixtures in afacility in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 depicts a schematic diagram of a system for monitoring,controlling and metering a plurality of HIF lighting fixtures in afacility in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram of a system for monitoring,controlling and metering a plurality of HIF lighting fixtures in afacility in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 depicts a block diagram of a method for monitoring, controllingand metering a plurality of HIF lighting fixtures in a facility inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 depicts a block diagram of a method for reducing electricityusage during peak demand periods in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 6 depicts a block diagram of a system for controlling lighting in afacility in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary graphical user interface that could bedisplayed on a display in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8A depicts a block diagram of a system for controlling lighting inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8B depicts a block diagram of a system for controlling lighting inaccordance with another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 depicts a flow diagram of a process for controlling lightingdevices in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, a block diagram of an intelligent system 10for monitoring, controlling and metering electrically-operated (e.g.electricity consuming) equipment shown as HIF lighting fixtures in afacility 12 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Thesystem 10 is shown to include a master controller 20, a mastertransceiver 40, a sensor 50, a group of HIF lighting fixtures 60, and alocal transceiver unit 70 associated with the HIF lighting fixtures 60.Although only one sensor is shown to be associated with the HIF lightingfixtures in one environment (or interior space), it is understood thatany number of sensors (operable to monitor any of a wide variety ofparameters in one or more interior spaces within the facility) may beprovided for operating the HIF lighting fixtures in one or moredesignated spaces or environments within the facility.

The master controller 20 is programmable with a desired usage pattern(e.g. control schedule, operation schedule, time schedule, etc.) for theapplicable electrically-operated equipment in the facility andautomatically generates a time-based control signal 42 to be sent fromthe master transceiver 40 to the local transceiver unit(s) 70 associatedwith each of the applicable HIF lighting fixtures 60 to controloperation of the fixtures according to the usage pattern (e.g. turn onat a specified time, turn off at a specified time, etc.). The mastercontroller 20 is also operable to automatically “learn” a new usagepattern based on an on-going pattern of demand-based control signals 44from the master controller 20, based on demand signals received from thesensor 50. The master controller may also be manually programmed withnew (or modified) usage patterns, as may be determined by a manager ofthe facility (or other appropriate entity).

In order to provide for intelligent control of the HIF lightingequipment, the master controller 20 is also operable to reduce powerconsumption during peak and off-peak power demand periods by monitoringthe need for operation (e.g. “demand”) of the HIF lighting fixtures (asindicated by appropriate signal(s) received from the sensors) andgenerating a demand-based control signal 44 that is sent from the mastertransceiver 40 to the local transceiver units 70 for operation of theHIF lighting fixtures 60 in a manner intended to reduce powerconsumption during the peak and/or off-peak demand periods (e.g.turn-off, turn-on, etc.).

To further provide for intelligent control of the HIF lightingequipment, the master controller 20 may also receive instructions froman external entity (e.g. shown for example as a power provider 14, etc.)to shape or manage peak loading by “trimming” or “shedding” load (e.g.during peak demand periods, or during other periods when power supplycapacity is limited, such as when a base load generating plant is takenoff-line, etc.) by generating an override control signal 46 to be sentfrom the master transceiver 40 to the local transceiver units 70 foroverriding the time-based control signals 42 and/or the demand-basedcontrol signals 44 and turning certain designated HIF lighting fixturesoff. According to one embodiment, the override control signal 46 may beselectively transmitted to the fixtures on an as-needed or case-by-casebasis to permit selective/manual management of loading and capacity of apower grid during peak demand periods. According to another embodiment,the override control signal 46 may be automatically transmitted to thefixtures upon the occurrence of certain predetermined criteria, such asa reduction in available capacity to a certain level or percentage, or arate of reduction in available capacity that exceeds a certain setpoint,etc. The criteria for initiation of the override control signal 46 areintended to be established in advance between the power provider and thefacility manager and implemented according to a predeterminedarrangement. According to such an arrangement, certain designated HIFlighting fixtures may be preprogrammed into the master controller 20 bythe facility manager (or others) according to the criticality ofoperation of the HIF lighting fixtures, and may be provided in “stages”or the like according to an amount of demand reduction that is desired.The local transceiver units actuate the HIF lighting fixtures accordingto the control signal(s) (i.e. turn-on, turn-off, etc.) and then send areturn signal corresponding to the particular HIF lighting fixture torespond to the master controller indicating that the action has beenaccomplished and to provide a status of each HIF lighting fixture (e.g.on, off, etc.). The term “power provider” as used herein is intended toinclude (as applicable) any supplier, distributor or aggregator ofelectrical power to a user, including but not limited to an electricpower aggregator, a utility, a utility generator, an electric powergenerator, an electric power distributor, etc.

The master controller 20 receives the return signal 72 from the localtransceiver unit(s) 70 and is intended to provide “intelligent metering”of each of the HIF lighting fixtures 60 in the facility 12 by logging(e.g. tracking, recording, trending, etc.) the power reduction achievedby reducing operation of the HIF lighting fixtures 60 (e.g. during peakdemand periods relative to the facility's usage pattern as accomplishedby monitoring within the facility 10, or during any reduced capacityperiod as requested/instructed by the power provider, etc.) and providesdata for each HIF lighting fixture to a user (e.g. facility manager,power provider, third-party power reduction service provider, etc.) toconfirm the action requested by an override control signal has beenaccomplished for shaping or managing peak demand, and to quantify thepower reduction and/or the corresponding economic savings. The data isprovided in a cumulative format to provide a total savings over apredetermined period of time. The data is also provided instantaneouslyfor confirmation of the status of each of the HIF lighting fixtures(e.g. on, off, etc.) by the user.

The master controller 20 may be a custom device that is programmed withthe desired algorithms and functionality to monitor and controloperation of, and to provide intelligent metering of, the HIF lightingfixtures. Alternatively, the master controller may be a commerciallyavailable product.

The master controller 20 is operable in a “normal” mode and an“override” mode for control of the HIF lighting fixtures 60. For“normal” modes of control, the master controller 20 operates accordingto both a time-based control scheme and a demand-based control scheme toreduce electricity usage during both peak and off-peak demand periods.In the time-based control scheme, the master controller 20 controlsoperation of the HIF lighting fixtures 60 according to the usage pattern(i.e. on a time-based schedule, etc.) to operate (e.g.energize/de-energize, turn on/off, etc.) the HIF lighting fixtures 60.The usage pattern provides a “baseline” operation control scheme for theHIF lighting fixtures 60 that is time or schedule based, and may beregularly updated (manually or automatically) to reflect changing usagepatterns for the HIF lighting fixtures 60. For example, the time basedcontrol scheme may reduce off-peak demand by reducing the scope/durationof the usage pattern and conserve energy during evening and nighttimehours.

In the demand-based control scheme, the master controller 20 monitorsand controls the designated HIF lighting fixtures 60 within the facility12 based on signals received from various sensors 50. Each sensor isoperable to monitor any one or more of a wide variety of parametersassociated within a predefined interior space 16 (e.g. designatedenvironment, room, etc.) within the facility 12, such as but not limitedto, ambient light level, motion, temperature, sound, etc., and provide asensor output signal 52 associated with the parameter to the mastercontroller 20. Alternatively, a switch (e.g. pushbutton, etc.) may beprovided so that a user can manually initiate an output signal. Thesensor output signal 52 may be transmitted using a network that iswired, or may be wireless. According to one embodiment as shown forexample in FIG. 2, the sensor 50 is operable to monitor ambient lightlevel (e.g. through windows, light-pipes, skylights, etc.) and/or motionwithin the interior space 16 and to provide a sensor output signal 52 tothe master controller 20 via a hardwire network 54. The mastercontroller 20 processes the sensor output signal(s) 52 according to apreprogrammed algorithm having logic steps that determine the need (e.g.demand) for operation of the HIF lighting fixtures 60, based on thefacility usage pattern and the parameters monitored by the sensor(s) 50,and defines or generates a demand-based control signal 44 to betransmitted from the master transceiver 40 to the appropriate localtransceiver unit(s) 70 to control operation of the HIF lighting fixtures60. For example, the demand based control scheme may reduce peak demandor off-peak demand depending on when the HIF fixtures are turned-off(e.g. by turning-off the HIF fixtures due to ambient light level duringdaytime hours, or by turning-off the HIF fixtures due to absence ofmotion during evening/nighttime hours, etc.).

According to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, a localtransceiver unit 70 is provided on each of the HIF lighting fixtures 60and intended to be controlled by the master controller 20, and eachlocal transceiver unit 70 includes a unique address corresponding to aparticular HIF lighting fixture 60 that is recognized by the mastercontroller 20. According to one embodiment, each local transceiver unit70 includes multiple switches (e.g. relays, etc.) for operation of theHIF lighting fixtures. For example, in HIF lighting fixtures having twoballasts, one local transceiver unit 70 has two switches and isassociated with each fixture, and each ballast (with its associatedlamps on the fixture) is independently controlled by one of the switchesin the transceiver unit 70. Each local transceiver unit 70 may becoupled to its associated HIF lighting fixture 60 in any one of avariety of manners. For example, the local transceiver unit may belocally installed adjacent to the HIF lighting fixture and hard-wired(e.g. for retro-fit applications, etc.). According to another example,the local transceiver unit may be configured for plug-in connection tothe HIF lighting fixtures (e.g. in a “plug-and-play” manner, etc.).According to a further example, the local transceiver unit may beintegrally formed with (or otherwise integrally provided as a part orcomponent of) the HIF lighting fixtures.

According to one embodiment as shown for example in FIG. 2-3, the HIFlighting fixtures 60 form an artificial lighting system for interiorspace 16 in the facility 12. According to an alternative embodiment, theelectrical equipment may be any of a wide variety of energy consumingdevices or equipment, such as appliances, motors that operate buildingservice loads or run manufacturing process equipment, etc.).

As illustrated in FIGS. 2-3, the master controller 20 receives thesensor output signal 52 representative of motion (e.g. by occupantswithin the facility, operation of manufacturing equipment, etc.) and/orambient light level (e.g. artificial light from fixtures that are “on”,natural light such as sunlight through windows, skylights, light pipes,etc.) from the sensor(s) 50. The master controller 20 also receives aresponse signal 72 from the local transceiver unit 70 associated witheach HIF lighting fixtures 60 indicating whether the fixture 60 (or it'sballasts) is “on” or “off.” The master controller 20 processes thesensor output signal 52 from the sensor 50 and the response signal 72from local transceiver units 70 according to a preprogrammed method oralgorithm and determines whether a demand for lighting exists within theinterior space 16, and then provides an appropriate demand-based controlsignal(s) 44 to the local transceiver unit(s) 70 for operation of theHIF lighting fixtures 60.

For example, the method for determination of artificial lighting demandin the interior space 16 may include the steps of (a) comparing theambient light level to a predetermined setpoint, below which artificiallighting is desired and above which artificial lighting is not desired,(b) determining whether motion within the environment is present. If thelight level is below the setpoint, and the HIF lighting fixtures 60 are“off,” and motion is detected, then the master controller 20 generates ademand-based control signal 44 that is transmitted from the mastertransceiver 40 to the appropriate local transceiver units 70 to turn HIFlighting fixtures 60 (e.g. one or both ballasts) “on”. The localtransceiver units 70 receive the demand-based control signal 44 andoperate to turn their respective HIF lighting fixtures 60 “on” and thensend a respond signal 72 to the master controller 20 to provide thestatus of each HIF lighting fixture 60 (e.g. “on”). Similarly, if theambient light level within the environment is above the setpoint and theHIF lighting fixtures 60 are “on”, regardless whether or not motion isdetected, then the master controller 20 provides a demand-based controlsignal 44 to the local transceiver units 70 to turn fixtures 60 “off”.The master controller 20 may delay the control signal for a suitabletime delay period (e.g. 5 minutes, 15 minutes, etc.) to provideincreased assurance that no activity in the environment is present (e.g.to avoid a “strobe” or “disco” like effect resulting from turning thefixtures on and off in response to intermittently changing lightlevels—such as intermittent cloud cover, etc.). The master controller 20may also be programmed to provide a time delay before such fixtures maybe turned back on again (e.g. to minimize power consumption associatedwith too-frequently cycling the equipment or fixtures between and on andoff condition, and/or to minimize detrimental effects on the equipmentsuch as reducing lamp life, overheating motors, etc.). The localtransceiver units 70 receive the demand-based control signal 44 andoperate (e.g. by actuating one or more switches or relays) to turn theirrespective HIF lighting fixtures 60 “off” and provide a response signal72 to the master controller 20 indicating the status (e.g. “on” or“off”) of the fixture 60, thus providing “metering” of the HIF lightingat a “fixture level.”

The master controller 20 “meters” the amount of the power reductionachieved (during peak demand and off-peak demand periods) by logging theresponse signal 72 of the HIF lighting fixtures' status received fromthe local transceiver units 70 and providing cumulative data on thetime, duration and status of the HIF lighting fixtures 60. The data maybe provided on a predetermined frequency (e.g. monthly or keyed on someother criteria, such as a billing period, etc.).

According to an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the sensor 50for a particular environment may interface directly with one of thelocal transceiver units 70 for the HIF lighting fixtures 60 associatedwith the interior space 16. The local transceiver unit 70 thenwirelessly transmits the sensor output signal 52 from the sensor(s) 50to the master controller 20. For example, a sensor may include a modularquick-connect that plugs into a local transceiver unit, or may behard-wired to the local transceiver unit, or may transmit the sensorsignal wirelessly to the local transceiver unit. In either case, thelocal transceiver unit “relays” the sensor signal to the mastercontroller.

The master controller also operates to accomplish peak demand energyreduction by receiving override control signals (e.g. to turn-offcertain fixtures according to a predetermined scheme) from the powerprovider (in response to peak demand management or shapingobjectives/criteria) and transmitting a signal to appropriate localtransceivers to “override” any existing or previous signal and turn-offthe associated HIF fixture (or a ballast of the fixture). For such“override” modes of operation where the master controller 20 provides asignal that overrides the “normal” mode of monitoring and controllingoperation of the HIF lighting fixtures 60, such as when override controlinstructions are received from a user (e.g. power provider 14, afacility manager, or the like to shed or trim loads to manageelectricity usage during peak demand periods, etc.), the mastercontroller 20 receives input signals or instructions 17 (manually orautomatically) to control operation of the HIF lighting fixtures 60. Forexample, during periods when available electric capacity is limited anda power provider 14 (e.g. an independent system operator, etc.) desiresto selectively reduce system-wide loading to maintain stability of aregional electric grid, the power provider may manually sendinstructions 17 to the master controller 20 to reduce power consumptionby a specified amount (e.g. percent load, specific number of kilowatts,etc.). According to another embodiment for managing electricity usageduring peak demand periods, the instructions 17 may be providedautomatically (e.g. by an automatically initiated signal sent to themaster controller) in response to certain predetermined conditions,occurrences, or criteria (e.g. existing demand is approaching (or hasexceeded) a predetermined level such as a percentage of grid capacity,or a rate of increase of demand is approaching (or has exceeded) as apredetermined level, or a loss of certain generating capacity hasoccurred or is anticipated, etc.), and are received by the mastercontroller 20 to implement the instructions and “override” existingequipment control status (if necessary). The master controller 20processes the instructions 17 according to a preprogrammed algorithmthat reflects the criteria established and agreed upon between the powerprovider and the facility manager for intervention (or interruption) bythe power provider. According to another embodiment, the overridecontrol signal 46 may be manually initiated by the facility manager(e.g. by actuating an input interface (touch screen, pushbutton, etc.)at, or operably associated with, the master controller) to permit thefacility manager to initiate action (unilaterally or in coordinationwith a power provider) to reduce peak demand.

According to one embodiment, the algorithm reads the desired loadreduction instructed by the power provider 14 and identifies certain HIFlighting fixtures 60 to be turned-off according to a preprogrammedhierarchy of fixtures that are arranged generally from least-critical tomost-critical for the operation or purpose of the facility 12,corresponding to the amount of load reduction requested by the powerprovider 14. The master controller 20 defines or provides an overridesignal 46 to be transmitted by the master transceiver 40 to theappropriate local transceiver units 70 to turn off the corresponding HIFlighting fixtures 60 identified by the master controller 20 to complywith the instructions 17. The local transceiver units 70 operate to turnthe HIF lighting fixtures 60 off and then send a response signal 72 tothe master controller 20 with the status of the HIF lighting fixtures 60(i.e. “off”). The master controller 20 may process one or moreiterations of load shedding control signals to local transceiver units70 until the amount of load reduction requested by the power provider 14has been achieved. The master controller 20 logs the status of the HIFlighting fixtures 60 and sends data 18 (e.g. “instantaneously” orotherwise within a certain desired time period) to the power provider 14confirming the instructions and identifying the equipment status and thecorresponding amount of power reduction (i.e. “instantaneous metering”or the like), where the dynamics of regional grid stability and controldictate a rapid instruction and response.

Upon restoration of the system condition (e.g. grid stability, desiredcapacity margins, etc.) the power provider 14 may then send instructions17 to the master controller to resume a normal mode of operation for theHIF lighting fixtures 60 (as otherwise indicated by time-based ordemand-based criteria). Alternatively, in the event that overrideoperation was initiated within the facility (e.g. by a facility manager,etc.), the facility manager may provide instructions to the mastercontroller (e.g. via an input interface on the master controller, etc).The master controller 20 then operates to restore such loads (if needed)according to the algorithm for the normal mode of operation, includingsuch factors as the facility's usage pattern, the sensor signals, theexisting status of the HIF lighting fixtures, etc., preferably byrestoring the HIF lighting fixtures in order from most-critical toleast-critical.

During any mode of operation, the master controller 20 monitors thestatus of the HIF lighting fixtures 60 and records the time (e.g. dateand time) that the devices turn on and off, and determines the amount oftime that the device was actually “off” during the normal “on” time ofthe facility's usage pattern and calculates the amount of peak demandelectrical energy saved, based on pre-programmed data related to eachfixture's electrical power consumption rating. The calculation of peakdemand electrical energy saved may be conducted on a daily basis, or maybe done on a less frequent and cumulative basis (e.g., weekly, monthly,etc.).

According to one embodiment, the master controller 20 also sends thedata 18 representing the peak demand power reduction to the facility'spower provider 14, so that an appropriate credit for reduction in peakdemand power may be received by the facility owner (or itsrepresentative). The applicants believe that large-scale implementationof the intelligent monitoring, controlling and metering system and the“override” ability to shed a facility's loads when necessary in apredetermined manner could provide substantial reductions in peak powerdemand, and permit the power provider to better manage limited powerresources during peak periods. Such peak demand reductions are intendedto minimize the need for constructing new power generating plants, whichcould provide substantial economic savings/benefit. However, in orderfor demand-side users of the power to implement peak demand powerconsumption reduction measures such as intelligent monitoring andmetering, business models typically require some type of incentive to beprovided to the user. One possibility is that the power provider couldprovide certain on-going credits (e.g. discounts, rebates, refunds,etc.) corresponding to the peak demand power reduction achieved by theuser, in order to provide incentive. The master controller is intendedto allow demand-side users to intelligently manage their power usage andobtain corresponding credits, while permitting the supply-side powerproviders to obtain the benefits of a lower peak demand, by activelycontrolling operation of the electrically-operated equipment, andrecording and storing the equipment's operating status data, andcalculating the resulting reduction in peak power demand, andtransmitting such data to the power provider.

Referring further to FIG. 2, the master controller 20 is described infurther detail, according to an exemplary embodiment. Master controller20 is shown to include a display 22, an input interface 24, an outputinterface 26, a memory 28, a processor 30, a normal mode equipmentcontroller application 32, an override mode equipment controlapplication 34, a power reduction metering application 36 and a usagepattern application 38. However, different and additional components maybe incorporated into master controller. Display 22 presents informationto a user of master controller 20 as known to those skilled in the art.For example, display 22 may be a thin film transistor display, a lightemitting diode display, a liquid crystal display, or any of a variety ofdifferent displays known to those skilled in the art now or in thefuture.

Input interface 24 provides an interface for receiving information fromthe user for entry into master controller 20 as known to those skilledin the art. Input interface 24 may use various input technologiesincluding, but not limited to, a keypad, a keyboard, a pen and touchscreen, a mouse, a track ball, a touch screen, one or more buttons, arotary dial, etc. to allow the user to enter information into mastercontroller 20 or to make selections presented in a user interfacedisplayed on display 22. Input interface 24 is also configured toreceive signals from a power provider 14 (e.g. override instructions toreduce load, etc.). Input interface 24 is also configured to receiveresponse signals 72 from the local transceiver units 70 representativeof a status of their associated HIF lighting fixtures 60. Outputinterface 26 provides the control signals to the master transceiver 40,and sends metering data 18 to a user (e.g. transmits instantaneousmonitoring and metering data to a power provider 14 in response tooverride instructions, or transmits power reduction metering data for apredetermined period of time to the power provider 14, etc.). Accordingto other embodiments, the input interface 24 may provide both an inputand an output interface. For example, a touch screen both allows userinput and presents output to the user. Master controller 20 may have oneor more input interfaces and/or output interfaces that use the same or adifferent technology.

Memory 28 is an electronic holding place or storage for information sothat the information can be accessed by processor 30 as known to thoseskilled in the art. Master controller 20 may have one or more memoriesthat use the same or a different memory technology. Memory technologiesinclude, but are not limited to, any type of RAM, any type of ROM, anytype of flash memory, etc. Master controller 20 also may have one ormore drives that support the loading of a memory media such as a compactdisk, digital video disk, or a flash stick.

Master transceiver 40 provides an interface for receiving andtransmitting data between devices (e.g. master controller 50, sensors50, local transceiver units 70, etc.) using various protocols,transmission technologies, and media as known to those skilled in theart. The communication interface may support communication using varioustransmission media that may be wired or wireless. Master controller 20may include a plurality of communication interfaces that use the same ora different transmission and receiving technology.

Processor 30 executes instructions as known to those skilled in the art.The instructions may be carried out by a special purpose computer, logiccircuits, or hardware circuits. Thus, processor 30 may be implemented inhardware, firmware, software, or any combination of these methods. Theterm “execution” is the process of running an application or thecarrying out of the operation called for by an instruction or algorithm.The instructions or algorithm may be written using one or moreprogramming language, scripting language, assembly language, etc.

Processor 30 executes an instruction, meaning that it performs theoperations called for by that instruction. Processor 30 operably coupleswith display 22, with input interface 24, with output interface 26, andwith memory 28 to receive, to send, and to process information.Processor 30 may retrieve a set of instructions from a permanent memorydevice and copy the instructions in an executable form to a temporarymemory device that is generally some form of RAM. Master controller 20may include a plurality of processors that use the same or a differentprocessing technology.

Normal mode equipment controller application 32 performs operationsassociated with managing electricity usage during peak demand andoff-peak demand periods by controlling the operation of HIF lightingfixtures 60 in the facility 12 (such as a light level within theinterior space 16). Control of the HIF lighting fixtures 60 may bedetermined according to a time-based control algorithm (e.g. based on ausage pattern) and a demand-based control algorithm (e.g. based on inputsignals from sensor(s) that monitor applicable parameters or conditionssuch as light level and motion). The operations may be implemented usinghardware, firmware, software, or any combination of these methods. Withreference to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, normal mode equipmentcontroller application 32 is implemented in software stored in memory 28and accessible by processor 30 for execution of the instructions thatembody the operations of normal mode equipment controller application32. Normal mode equipment controller application 32 may be written usingone or more programming languages, assembly languages, scriptinglanguages, etc.

Override mode equipment controller application 34 performs operationsassociated with reducing electricity usage during peak demand periods byoverriding the normal operation of HIF lighting fixtures 60 in thefacility 12 (such as reducing or shedding loads in the facility 12 inresponse to instructions 17 generated automatically or manually andreceived from a power provider 14, or the facility manager, etc.). Theoperations may be implemented using hardware, firmware, software, or anycombination of these methods. With reference to the exemplary embodimentof FIG. 2, override mode equipment controller application 34 isimplemented in software stored in memory 28 and accessible by processor30 for execution of the instructions that embody the operations ofoverride mode equipment controller application 34. Override modeequipment controller application 34 may be written using one or moreprogramming languages, assembly languages, scripting languages, etc.

Power reduction metering application 36 performs operations associatedwith calculating the amount of electric power saved during peak andoff-peak demand periods by controlling the usage of the HIF lightingfixtures 60 within the facility 12. The operations may be implementedusing hardware, firmware, software, or any combination of these methods.With reference to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, power reductionmetering application 36 is implemented in software stored in memory 28and accessible by processor 30 for execution of the instructions thatembody the operations of power reduction metering application 36. Powerreduction metering application 36 may be written using one or moreprogramming languages, assembly languages, scripting languages, etc.

Facility usage pattern application 38 performs operations associatedwith establishing or providing the normal usage pattern (e.g. timeschedule and status such as “on” or “off”) of the HIF lighting fixtures60 in the facility 12, for use in calculating the amount of electricpower saved during peak and off-peak demand periods by controlling theusage of the HIF lighting fixtures 60 within the facility 12. Accordingto one embodiment, the facility usage pattern application 38 alsoincludes power consumption ratings for the HIF lighting fixtures 60controlled by the master controller 20. The operations may beimplemented using hardware, firmware, software, or any combination ofthese methods. With reference to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2,facility usage pattern application 38 is implemented in software storedin memory 28 and accessible by processor 30 for execution of theinstructions that embody the operations of peak demand power savedapplication 38. Peak demand power saved application 38 may be writtenusing one or more programming languages, assembly languages, scriptinglanguages, etc.

Referring further to FIG. 2, the HIF lighting fixtures 60 may be thesame or may include variations of HIF lighting devices. Associated witheach of the plurality of HIF lighting fixtures 62 is a local transceiver70 having a unique address recognized by the master controller 20, andwhich receives and responds to a control signal (42, 44, 46) from mastertransceiver 40. The control signal (42, 44, 46) may include a lightingindicator specific to each of the plurality of HIF lighting fixtures 60or may include the same lighting indicator for each of the plurality ofHIF lighting fixtures 60. The lighting indicator may indicate on/off ormay indicate a lighting level (e.g. turn one or both ballasts of afluorescent lighting fixture on or off).

According to one embodiment, the local transceiver units 70 are capableof plugging into the lighting fixtures (or other electrically operatedequipment provided by any of a wide variety of manufacturers) withoutadditional wiring and can communicate (e.g. receive and respond)wirelessly with the master controller 20 using radio frequency (e.g. 915MHz). Each local transceiver unit is assigned a unique address, so thateach fixture is identifiable to (and controllable by) the mastercontroller 20.

According to one embodiment, master transceiver 40 transmits controlsignal 42, 44, 46 using a radio frequency (such as 915 MHz) to the localtransceiver units 70 of the interior space 16 that are within aneffective range R1 defined based on the characteristics of thetransmitter as known to those skilled in the art. However any of a widevariety of operating frequencies, modulation schemes, and transmissionpower levels can be used. For example, frequencies in the range of27-930 MHz, and particularly within about 5% of 315, 434, 868, and/or915 MHz may be used. Additionally, other frequencies such as 2.4gigahertz may be used. Master transceiver 40 and local transceiver units70 may be designed to qualify as unlicensed radio frequency devicesunder the Federal Communications Commission rules found in 47 C.F.R.§15. Master controller 20 is configured to encode a particulartransceiver address in the control signal 42, 44, 46. Each localtransceiver unit 70 is configured to respond only to control signals 42,44, 46 encoded with its unique address. The HIF lighting fixture 60associated with each local transceiver unit 70 can be turned on or off(or dimmed by de-energizing only one ballast) based on the controlsignal 42, 44, 46 received from the master transceiver 40. The addressinformation may be encoded in the control signal using a variety ofmethods as known to those skilled in the art.

Referring further to FIG. 2, the master controller 20 can control theHIF lighting fixtures 60 located throughout the facility 12, by usingone or more of the local transceiver units 70 as “repeaters” (shown as arepeater 74) to overcome range limitations due to the distance of thedesired equipment from the master transceiver 40. For example, mastertransceiver 40 transmits a control signal 42, 44, 46 within a firstrange R1 for operation of fixtures 60 that are within range R1. A localtransceiver unit 70 positioned within effective range R1 is designated(i.e. preprogrammed) to also operate as a repeater 74 by receiving thesignal 42, 44, 46 from master transceiver 40 and retransmitting thecontrol signal 42, 44, 46 using a radio frequency (e.g. 915 MHz) to anylocal transceiver units 70 within a repeater effective range R2. Usingthe local transceiver unit 70 as a repeater 74, the group of equipment60 (shown for example as light fixtures 62) positioned outside effectiverange R1 (and within the effective range R2) can be controlled. Althoughonly one repeater has been shown, multiple repeaters may be provided topermit control of a wide variety of electrically operated equipmentlocated in various interior spaces throughout the facility.

Referring to FIG. 4, the method of monitoring, controlling and meteringthe HIF lighting fixtures in the facility is shown according to oneembodiment to include the following steps (among possible other steps):

(a) establishing a usage pattern that defines a time-based controlscheme for operation of designated HIF lighting fixtures within anenvironment of a facility,

(b) providing a time-based control signal to the HIF lighting fixturesto operate according to the time-based control scheme,

(c) modifying the time-based control scheme by monitoring a signalrepresentative of one or more parameter in the environment and providinga demand-based control signal to one or more of the HIF lightingfixtures,

(d) receiving override instructions from a power provider to reduceelectrical loading at the facility,

(e) providing an override control signal to one or more of the HIFlighting fixtures to accomplish the override instructions,

(f) receiving a response signal representative of a status of each ofthe HIF lighting fixtures in response to the control signals,

(g) sending a confirmation signal to the power provider in response tothe override instructions, the confirmation signal including datarepresentative of the identity and status of the HIF lighting fixturesthat received the override control signal,

(h) logging the status, time and duration of operation (ornon-operation) of each of the HIF lighting fixtures,

(i) quantifying a reduction in the power usage achieved by operating theHIF lighting fixtures according to the control signals, and

(j) sending a report containing data representative of the reduction inpower usage over a predetermined time period to a power provider.

However, any one or more of a variety of other steps may be included, inany particular order to accomplish the method of monitoring, controllingand metering operation of the HIF lighting fixtures in the facility.

Referring to FIG. 5, the method of reducing electricity usage duringpeak demand periods by monitoring, controlling and metering the HIFlighting fixtures in the facility is shown according to one embodimentto include the following steps (among possible other steps):

(a) establishing a set of predetermined load reduction criteria that arerepresentative of a need or desire by a power provider to reduce loadingon an electricity supply grid during peak demand periods; the criteriamay include a level or amount of load/demand on the grid, or a rate ofincrease in load/demand on the grid, or an actual or anticipatedreduction in electricity supply to the grid, or a level or amount ofcapacity available on the grid, or a rate of decrease in the capacityavailable on the grid, where capacity is generally understood to be thedifference between the available supply of electricity to the grid andthe demand (i.e. load, etc.) on the grid (e.g. by users connected to thegrid, etc.),

(b) establishing an agreement with a facility manager to facilitate thepower provider's ability to manage the peak demand on the grid andintervene by interrupting the operation of certain HIF lightingequipment in the facility by sending instructions (manually orautomatically) to a master controller in the facility; the instructionsmay designate specific equipment to be turned-off, or may specify anamount of electricity usage reduction to be achieved at the facility;the instructions may be initiated manually on an as-needed basis, or themay be initiated automatically in response to the occurrence of one ormore of the predetermined load reduction criteria; where theinstructions may identify specific HIF lighting equipment to beturned-off (e.g. according to a unique address for a local transceiverassociated with the specific HIF lighting equipment), or specify anamount of load reduction requested by the power provider,

(c) establishing a schedule or listing of HIF lighting equipment in thefacility to be turned-off in response to the instructions; the listingof equipment may include individual fixtures, or independent ballastswithin a fixture, identified by a unique address recognized by themaster controller; the fixtures may be groups of fixtures based onlocation or criticality to operation of the facility; the groups offixtures may be specified in a cascading hierarchy of groups that areturned-off sequentially, or simultaneously, depending on an amount ofelectricity usage reduction, or the specific fixtures/ballasts,identified by the instructions;

(d) configuring the master controller (or an associated device) to sendan override control signal to each of the designated HIF lightingdevices; where the master controller may communicate with a mastertransceiver that communicates with a local transceiver associated witheach lighting device (or a designated group of lighting devices to beoperated collectively as a single unit),

(e) monitoring a status of the capacity of, or demand on, an electricitysupply grid or network,

(f) sending an override control signal in response to the instructionsreceived upon the occurrence of any one or more of the predeterminedload reduction criteria;

(g) turning-off certain HIF lighting equipment in response to theoverride control signal;

(h) sending a response signal from the local transceivers associatedwith the HIF lighting equipment confirming that the fixtures are “off”;

(i) quantifying (i.e. metering, etc.) an amount of electricity usagereduction achieved during a peak demand period by turning-off the HIFlighting equipment in response to the instructions from the powerprovider.

According to any exemplary embodiment, a system and method are providedfor reducing electricity usage during peak and off-peak demand periodsthrough intelligent monitoring, control and metering of HIF lightingfixtures within a facility. The system includes a master controller, amaster transceiver, one or more sensors, and a local transceiver unituniquely identifiable to the master controller for each of the HIFlighting fixtures in the facility to be controlled. The sensor(s)monitor parameters within the facility and provide sensor signal(s)representative of the parameters to the master controller. During anormal mode of operation, the master controller processes the sensorsignals according to preprogrammed algorithms and define or generatesignals that are transmitted from the master transceiver to theappropriate local transceiver unit(s) to control operation of the HIFlighting fixtures. The local transceiver units provide a response signalto the master controller indicating the status of the associated HIFlighting fixtures for logging and tracking by the master controller. Themaster controller provides power reduction metering data to a user forquantifying the power saved and the economic benefit resulting from thepower saved. During an override mode of operation, an outside user (e.g.power provider, facility manager, etc.) may manage the peak demand onthe electric grid by providing instructions (manually or automatically)to reduce or shed load at the facility. The instructions may be generic(e.g. reduce power by a certain amount or percentage) or theinstructions may be directed to certain identified equipment. The mastercontroller processes the instructions according to preprogrammedalgorithms and defines or generates signals that override previouscontrol signals and are transmitted from the master transceiver to theappropriate local transceiver unit(s) to provide override controloperation of the HIF lighting fixtures. The local transceiver unitsprovide a response signal to the master controller indicating the statusof the associated HIF lighting fixtures for logging and tracking by themaster controller. The master controller provides instantaneous meteringdata to the power provider to confirm implementation of the instructionsand identify a corresponding economic benefit resulting from the powersaved. According to alternative embodiments, the system and methoddescribed herein may be adapted for use with other types of electricallyoperated equipment within the facility, such as equipment related tomanufacturing processes, building support and services, and the like.

Accordingly, the intelligent monitoring, controlling and metering of theHIF lighting equipment in a facility is provided by the mastercontroller and includes preprogrammed instructions, algorithms, data andother information that permits the HIF lighting equipment to becontrolled (e.g. turned-off) in response to commands from an externalsource (e.g. a power provider), or an internal source (e.g. a facilitymanager), or in response to signals received from suitable sensors, toprovide optimum operation of the HIF lighting equipment in coordinationwith peak-demand conditions, and to reduce overall energy usage andimpact on the environment, and to optimize performance and life of theHIF lighting equipment and reduce maintenance and costs associated withthe lighting equipment.

User Driven Configuration and Control of Lighting Systems

Referring now to FIG. 6, a block diagram of a system 600 for controllinglighting in a facility is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment.System 600 is shown to include master controller 602, which may beconfigured to be the same as master controller 20 shown in FIGS. 1-3 orwhich may be configured differently. Master controller 602 is shown incommunication with a plurality of lighting fixture groups 604, 606; eachgroup having a plurality of lighting fixtures. Master controller 602 isshown to include a data communications interface 608 for conducting thecommunications with the plurality of lighting fixtures.

Master controller 602 is further shown to include a control module 610.Control module 610 is configured to provide a control signal to datacommunications interface 608 (directly or indirectly). Control module610 includes a processor 612 and memory 614 (which may generally beconfigured similarly to the processor and memory described above withreference to FIGS. 2 and 3). According to an exemplary embodiment,memory 614 is a non-volatile memory device storing at least computercode for operating master controller 602 and for the completion of oneor more control algorithms relating to the lighting fixtures variouslyin communication with data communications interface 608. According to anexemplary embodiment, processor 612 is configured to execute thecomputer code stored in memory 614 and/or to otherwise facilitate theactivities of master controller 602. The control signal provided to datacommunications interface 608 from control module 610 may be configured(e.g., formatted, modulated, etc.) to turn off (or on) one or more ofthe plurality of lighting fixtures. The control signal can be generatedand sent from the control module according to a control algorithm. Thecontrol algorithm can be configured to generate the control signal basedon at least one of a time of day and/or a sensed condition relating tothe use of the facility. The control module can further be configured toquantify a reduction in power obtained by controlling the plurality oflighting fixtures according to the algorithm. This quantification can beconducted according to any of the activities described above including,but not limited to, aggregating power readings from the lightingfixtures, aggregating lighting fixture time on and/or off during the day(the times on and/or off maintained by the lighting fixtures and/or thecontrol module), considering the rate of energy consumed,characteristics of installed equipment (e.g., information that twelvelighting fixtures will be on for one hour at one hundred watt hours),and aggregating power measurements (e.g., current, voltage, powerfactor, etc.). For facilitating the quantification activity, memory 614may store historical power usage information and/or power costinformation for the lighting fixtures. Memory device 614, and/or anothermemory device which may be local or remote to control module 610 (e.g.,a networked storage device, a hard drive, flash memory, etc.), may alsostore any number of other temporary, intermediate term, or long termdata sets. For example, memory device 614 may store measurements ofenergy, schedule information, system/device configuration profiles, userprofiles, light on/off records, and/or any other data. According to anexemplary embodiment, emissions profiles for individual devices ordevice types of the system are stored in memory 614 and used tocalculate emission costs/savings based on behavioral data experienced bythe system (e.g., off/on data). Resource (e.g., power) cost informationmay also be stored, updated, and/or maintained in memory based onmanually entered costs or costs obtained from a remote system. This costinformation can be used by the control algorithms and/or viewed by theuser to control costs actually incurred. For example, if the user (orthe algorithm) sees that the cost of power has increased by fivepercent, the user (or the algorithm) can take configuration steps tooffset some or all of the increased costs (e.g., by configuring thelighting fixtures to power-down earlier if occupancy is no longerdetected in a space).

When the control algorithm of control module 610 is based on a sensedcondition relating to the use of the facility, master controller 602receives information regarding the sensed condition from datacommunications interface 608 and/or sensor interface 616. According toan embodiment where data communications interface 608 receives thesensor information, any number of different sensing devices can be usedto transmit the sensor information to data communications interface 608.For example, one or more of the lighting fixtures can include or beelectrically coupled to a sensor. As shown in FIG. 6, first lightingfixture 618 is coupled to master transceiver 620 which is coupled to orincludes sensor 622; second lighting fixture 624 is coupled to plug-intransceiver 626 which is coupled to or includes sensor 628. Group Blighting fixtures 606 can also include sensing devices. Sensors 630 notdirectly coupled to or in communication with the lighting fixtures cancommunicate directly with master controller 602 via sensor interface616. Sensor interface 616 can be any type of wired or wireless interface(e.g., 915 Mhz, 315 Mhz, WiMesh, ZigBee, WiFi, WiMax, Ethernet, BACnet,wireless USB, Bluetooth, etc.). Data communications interface 608 can beof the same or a different technology and configuration than sensorinterface 616. The sensor information or condition sensed by sensors630, 622, 628 can include motion, ambient light levels, absolute lightlevels, heat, carbon dioxide, capacitance, or any other information orcondition that can be used to sense a condition relevant to lighting(e.g., occupancy information, lighting information, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 6, one or more of the lighting fixtures incommunication (e.g., transmitting, receiving, etc.) with mastercontroller 602 includes a transceiver (e.g., transceiver 620, 626). Thetransceiver can be supplied with the lighting fixture or retrofit to thelighting fixture. For example, at least one of the plurality of lightingfixtures may include a transceiver which has been retrofit to thelighting fixture by placement in series (e.g., via a female plug-ininterface and a male plug) with the power input for the lightingfixture. In addition to transceivers, each lighting fixture can alsoinclude a logic circuit configured to report a condition of the lightingfixture or its individual ballasts back to control module 610 viawireless communications. The conditions reported back to control module610 can include, for example: (a) a state change from ‘on’ to ‘off’ orfrom ‘off’ to ‘on’, (b) a total of time in the ‘on’ state or the ‘off’state, (c) a log of lighting state changes including a time the statechange occurred, and the like. The logic circuit and/or a logic circuitof the transceiver can also gather measurements of actual energy used(e.g., current used, voltage used, power factor used) or anotheroperational characteristics of the device by which energy usage can bederived and report the actual energy usage or the characteristics backto controller 602 via wireless communications. For example, atransceiver associated with a pumping system might measure pressure andreport pressure back to controller 602. A pressure-to-energy model incontroller 602 for the pumping system can be used to convert thesereceived measurements to energy or emissions costs/savings.

The conditions reported to control module 610 from the devices can becommunicated upon receipt of a query signal sent from control module 610via data communications interface 608. In other embodiments, lightingfixtures 604, 606 only report conditions back to control module 610 whentheir state changes. In yet other embodiments, lighting fixtures 604,606 self-report back to control module 610 on a regular (or irregular)basis (e.g., after a predetermined period of time, at predeterminedtimes, etc.). The signals sent between data communications interface 608and the transceivers can be modulated analog signals, digital signals,or any other appropriate wireless data communications signals.

According to an exemplary embodiment, using the state data provided bythe lighting fixtures, control module 610 can also include circuitryand/or computer code for providing a diagnostics tool that determinesmaintenance actions to be completed. For example, if control module 610sends a control signal to a lighting fixture and the lighting fixturedoes not appropriately respond (e.g., via a timeout, a communicationfailure, or by simply not responding properly (by not responding withthe correct lighting state), etc.), the diagnostics tool might alert asystem manager to this fact (e.g., via an alert provided to a graphicaluser interface, via an e-mail, text message, audible alert, and thelike). Any number of other lighting-related activities may be providedby control module 610 or another system coupled to master controller 602due to master controller 602's ability to serve as a data collectionpoint for lighting-related information. For example, a bulb replacementor ballast replacement alert signal may be sent (e.g., to a graphicaluser interface, to an e-mail address, to a pager, to a text messagingdevice, etc.) after logging a predetermined cumulative “on” time ornumber of state changes. A diagnostics tool associated with controlmodule 610 (e.g., working along with other software modules such as aweb server) can allow remote access to diagnostics information. Forexample, a remote terminal may be able to log-into the control module toview device failure information, device alert information, device energyusage information, device communication success/failure information,network health information, and the like. A user investigating failureinformation via the remote terminal could then access configuration userinterfaces provided at the remote location (e.g., web-based userinterfaces served from controller 602 to the remote terminal) to repairor reconfigure the system, the network, the individual devices orotherwise address the problem. According to yet other exemplaryembodiments, controller 602 may include a self-diagnostics module sothat the system could attempt repair or reconfiguration measures withoutuser input. For example, in the event of multiple network failures,controller 602 could command the transceivers of the system (e.g.,lighting transceivers) to switch to a different RF channel. According toan exemplary embodiment, diagnostics and repair user interfaces areavailable via a user-friendly touch screen interface generated on atouch screen 632.

It should be noted that data communications interface 608 may also beconfigured to communicate with at least one other type of buildingcomponent in addition to lighting fixtures. For example, datacommunications interface 608 may be configured to communicate with fans,air handling units, heating systems, manufacturing systems, researchprocessing systems, and any other energy using systems/components.Control module 610 may selectively provide sensed condition basedcontrol and time of day based control to the other building component(s)via data communications interface 608. User interfaces provided bymaster controller 602 for lighting fixtures can also be appropriatelyprovided for the other building component(s). It should further beappreciated that controller 602, according to various alternativeembodiments, could be adapted to primarily serve the other types ofbuilding components rather than lighting (e.g. motors, machines,appliances, devices used in lean manufacturing processes, etc.). Forexample, controller 602 may be used to control motors used to operateconveyor devices and the like in logistics facilities, or ventilationequipment in livestock or agricultural facilities and the like. By wayof further example, controller 602 may use an optical sensor to count anumber of units (e.g., processed units, input units, output units, etc.)of a manufacturing process and to quantify power expenditure based onknown or estimated power costs associated with a unit. Yet further, forexample, controller 602 can be configured to provide user interfaces,execute control algorithms, and to control signals relating to anybuilding system having devices that may be turned on/off and or variedto save power. For example, controller 602 may be configured to controla one or more variable speed pumps of an air compressor for maximumefficiency. A transceiver coupled to the pump (or a controller for thepump/compressor) may record data relating to the pump and send the datato controller 602 via the transceiver. The transmission of the data tocontroller 602 may be conducted by a network of similar or differenttransceivers coupled to devices for control/energy monitoring. In otherwords, transceivers coupled to devices may use a bi-directional“information highway” formed by similar transceivers (e.g., transceiverscoupled to lighting fixtures) to propagate data and/or controlinformation to/from the transceivers and the controller (e.g.,controller 602).

Each lighting fixture may be associated with a unique identifier so thathigh resolution sensing and control options are available to mastercontroller 602. For example, if each lighting fixture includes anoccupancy sensor (e.g., sensors 622, 628), control logic of mastercontroller 602 or a circuit local to the lighting fixtures canadvantageously cause lighting to “follow” a human walking through abuilding (e.g., turning only those lights on that the human needs tosee, saving power by keeping the other lights off). Further, a highresolution of lighting fixtures and individual control can providevaried power savings and/or brightness levels. For example, a user canselect to have “every third light” turned on during a low-use period ofthe day or configure control module 610 or the local circuit of thelighting fixture to only turn those lights on in an area that arenecessary to reach a threshold absolute brightness level (ambient light+lighting fixture light). A high resolution of lighting devices may alsobe configured to assist with access control/security features. Forexample, while lights may turn on for authorized users, the lights maynot turn on for unauthorized users, making it difficult for unauthorizedusers to see and/or otherwise serving as an deterrent. To facilitatesuch activity, some of sensors 630 may be access card readers,biometrics devices, security keypads, or other security-related sensorsor devices for evaluating whether access is permitted. Accordingly, someembodiments of controller 602 include a security module configured tostore access control profiles that affect the operation of the controlalgorithms. The security module may also allow varying levels of controlto the control algorithms and user interfaces provided by controller602. For example, while all user might have “turn on/turn off” levelaccess, only users with higher level access might be grantedconfiguration level access, scheduling access, and the like.

Referring still to FIG. 6, master controller 602 is shown to include atouch screen 632 electrically coupled to control module 610, accordingto an exemplary embodiment. While touch screen 632 is illustrated asbeing integrated with master controller 602 (e.g., touch screen 632 andcontrol module 610 share the same housing), according to other exemplaryembodiments touch screen 632 can be remote from master controller602/control module 610 and communicate with master controller602/control module 610 via a wired or wireless communications link.Further, while touch screen 632 is illustrated in FIG. 6, it should beappreciated that any user interface having one or more user interfacecontrols or elements could be configured to provide functionalitysimilar to or the same as touch screen 632. For example, in place of (orin addition to) touch screen 632, a display screen with buttons separatefrom the display screen may be provided.

Touch screen 632, as illustrated in FIG. 6, is displaying a LightingFixtures Group A configuration menu via a graphical user interface 634.Graphical user interface 634 is shown to include an indicator of thecurrent algorithm mode for Lighting Fixtures Group A as well as a numberof user interface elements (e.g., buttons, “hot zones,” hyperlinks,etc.) 636-648 for controlling Group A lighting fixtures 604 or forconfiguring control module 610 for control of Group A lighting fixtures604. User interface elements 636-648 include user interface element 636and user interface element 638 for manually controlling lightingfixtures. As indicated by user interface elements 636, 638, manualcontrol of lighting fixtures may override a previously set algorithmmode. Another algorithm mode selectable via exemplary graphical userinterface 634 includes a “time of day” based lighting logic (availablevia user interface element 640). According to various exemplaryembodiments, algorithm modes such as sensed condition-based logic,supply-based logic, or any other suitable lighting logic mode areavailable via graphical user interface 634.

Graphical user interface 634 is further shown to include user interfaceelement 642 for setting a schedule for mode switching. With userinterface element 642, for example, a user can schedule an “ambientlighting” mode to be active during day-light hours (so that, forexample, the lighting fixtures only turn on if there is not enoughambient light in the room), an occupancy-based mode to be active duringdawn and dusk hours, and a manual mode (with a default to off) to beactive during nighttime hours. According to an exemplary embodiment,graphical user interface 634 allows a user to schedule/set anycombination or permutation of algorithm conditions (e.g., motion,ambient lighting, timing) or states (e.g., override, timing, occupancy,sensed condition, etc.).

It should be noted that control module 610 could be configured toprovide control signals to transceivers in system 600 based on internaldemand-response type algorithms, external demand-response typealgorithms, and/or any other type of algorithm. As described above,external demand-response type algorithms can control devices to savepower based on commands and/or data received from sources external thesystem (e.g., a power plant). Internal demand-response type algorithmscan monitor energy, device, and/or facility characteristics locally andmake and execute control decisions relating to those characteristics.

Referring still to FIG. 6, graphical user interface 634 is shown toinclude a user interface element 644 titled “Change Group AComposition.” User interface element 644 can be used to receive inputfor changing the lighting fixtures associated with “Group A.” Forexample, by utilizing user interface element 644 (and other userinterface elements that appear once element 644 is selected (e.g.,clicked, touched, pressed), a user could remove the second lightingfixture from “Group A” and add one or more additional lighting fixturesto “Group A.” According to an exemplary embodiment, graphical userinterface 634 is configured to provide a map (e.g., top-down floor planview, bird's eye view, perspective view, etc.) of a facility area (e.g.,zone, room, group of rooms, etc.) from which the user can selectlighting fixtures or groups for control. For example, in one exemplaryembodiment, the user can click on a plurality of lighting fixtures showndispersed around a floor plan, select a user interface element labeled“Group,” and then assign a name to the group of selected lightingfixtures (e.g. “Library Fixtures”, etc.). Control module 610 can thenstore the user's selected grouping in memory, allow the user to selectthe grouping for configuration via the touch screen, and store algorithmsettings for the grouping. By selecting user interface element 646,labeled “View Lighting Fixtures Group B Configuration Menu,” a user cancommand the controller to change from providing user interface elementsfor Group A to providing user interface elements for Group B. Byselecting user interface element 648, a user can command the controllerto provide a map of all lighting fixtures or groups in a facility orfacility area. According to an exemplary embodiment, the Group Afixtures can be associated with a first color (e.g., blue) while theGroup B fixtures are associated with a second color (e.g., green)allowing for easy viewing of the map and/or actual labeling of thefixtures.

Referring now to FIG. 7, an exemplary graphical user interface 700 thatcould be displayed on the touch screen of FIG. 6 or on another displaycommunicably coupled to a master controller is illustrated, according toan exemplary embodiment. By way of an example in a facility having fourzones, graphical user interface 700 is shown to include fourconfiguration zones for Groups A, B, C, and D (zones 702-708). Accordingto an exemplary embodiment, zones 702-708 correspond to areas or zonesof a facility floor (e.g., zone 702 corresponds to lighting in anorthwest area of the facility, zone 704 corresponds to lighting in anortheast area of the facility, zone 706 corresponds to a southwest areaof the facility, and zone 708 corresponds to a southeast area of thefacility, etc.). In such an exemplary embodiment, the graphical userinterface shows a representation of a facility floor plan and thegraphical user interface is configured to allow the user to divide thefloor plan into one or more zones and to associate at least one of thelighting groups (e.g., A-D) with the one or more zones created bydividing the floor plan. It should be appreciated that many differentgraphics and/or ways for associating groups with physical facilitylocations could be implemented on graphical user interface 700. If auser clicks on zones 702-708, the system will generate a form or promptfor the user to change the configuration for the corresponding lightingfixture group. For example, if a user selects zone 702, the system willprompt the user for changes to the configuration corresponding to GroupA. It should be appreciated that any number of configuration zones,lighting groups, lighting fixtures, floors, floor plans, facilities, orany other aspect shown in FIG. 7 may be varied according to otherexemplary embodiments.

Each of zones 702-708 not only allow user selection for configuration,but, as shown, also display the current configuration. By the display ofsuch information, users can advantageously see how a plurality of groupsare configured by viewing a single screen. To change the configuration,for example, the user may only need to tap zone 702, tap the time periodof 6:00pm to 9:00pm and then select a different mode (e.g., to changefrom an occupancy-based sensed condition during the three hour timeperiod to an “ON” setting during the time period). According to anexemplary embodiment, the exemplary graphical user interface forconfiguration of Group A shown in FIG. 6 is displayed when a user clickson zone 702. The text shown in zone 704 indicates that the Group Blights are in a fully automated algorithm mode whereby sensed conditions(e.g., motion, carbon dioxide, light sensors, etc.) plus logic determinewhen lighting is demanded in zone 704. Zone 704 further indicates thatan override for the area is optional (e.g., users can flip a switch toturn the lights “off” or “on” and the fully automated mode will beoverridden for one hour). Zone 706 indicates that the algorithm is setfor manual mode and provides two user interface elements 710, 712 thatcan behave as traditional light switches for turning the lightingfixtures of Group C off and on. Zone 708 indicates that the algorithm isset for sensed condition based lighting logic and that the algorithmwill turn the lights on when occupancy is detected in the room. Zone 708is further illustrated to indicate a user-selected definition for“occupied”; when either sensed motion or sensed carbon dioxide levels(e.g., the carbon dioxide produced by breathing humans) in the facilityarea associated with Group D reach a threshold associated with humanoccupation, the lights will turn on. By selecting zone 708, user willview a prompt, generated by the master controller, to edit thisconfiguration. Changes made via graphical user interface 700 arecommunicated to a memory device associated with the control model and/orare communicated out to the various lighting fixtures. It should beappreciated that other occupancy conditions may be used by other zonesor that zone 708 may be reconfigured to a different set of conditionsbefore zone 708 is considered “occupied.”

Referring still to FIG. 7, graphical user interface 700 is shown toinclude indicia 714 of a quantified reduction in power obtained bycontrolling the plurality of lighting fixtures of the facility accordingto “smart lighting” algorithms (e.g., the configurations of zones702-708). While indicia 714 includes an indication of the kilowatt hourssaved per date and dollars saved per date for the facility, it should benoted that any units of measurement, time period, and/or monetary unitmay be displayed for any zone(s) in the facility. Further, it should benoted that indicia 714 may be icon-based, graph-based, color-coded, orotherwise used to communicate power savings information. Yet further,indicia 714 can be a user interface element (e.g., a button) that allowsa user to view further and/or more detailed information regarding thequantification of power saved. For example, when indicia 714 is selected(e.g., clicked) the system may generate a tool (e.g., graphical userinterface window) for verifying emission credits that utilizes thequantifications of power saved from the control module for conductingthe verification. Graphical user interface 700 is further shown toinclude “view map” user interface element 716 and “change groupings”user interface element 718.

Referring now to FIG. 8A, a block diagram of a system 800 forcontrolling lighting is shown, according to an alternative exemplaryembodiment. System 800 is shown to provide a configuration whereby aclient device 802 provides the user interface (e.g., the graphical userinterface shown in FIG. 7) for system 800. Client device 802 (e.g., apersonal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone, a laptop, aworkstation, a tablet, a remote control, a panel mounted on the wall,etc.) connects to master controller 804 via a wired or wirelessconnection to network 806 (WiFi network, Ethernet network, IP network,LAN, WAN, ZigBee network, Bluetooth Piconet, etc.). Master controller804 may include the server (e.g., web server, web services module,server module) with which client device 802 communicates and provide thelogic/control module for executing the lighting control algorithm of thesystem. As shown in FIG. 8A, master transceiver 808 (which may beincorporated with one or more lighting fixtures 810, 812 or may bestand-alone) is also shown connected to network 806 via a wired orwireless connection. According to an exemplary embodiment, mastercontroller 804 can communicate to master transceiver 808 via the sameprotocol and/or network as that used to communicate to client device802. Lighting fixtures 810, 812 can be wired to master transceiver 808or master transceiver 808 can wirelessly relay control signals frommaster controller 804 to the appropriate lighting fixtures. According tovarious exemplary embodiments, master controller 804, master transceiver808, and lighting fixtures 810, 812 can be of any network topology. Forexample, master transceiver 808 can broadcast control signals to alllighting fixtures in its vicinity in one embodiment, master transceiver808 can be a node (e.g., a head node) in a mesh network in anotherembodiment, a center node in a star topology, a first node in a ringtopology, etc.

FIG. 8B shows another exemplary embodiment of a system 850 forcontrolling lighting, according to an exemplary embodiment. In system850, device 852 includes the master transceiver, the lighting controlmodule for the system (e.g., the functionality of master controller 804shown in FIG. 8A) and circuitry for a first lighting fixture. Lightingfixtures 854, client devices 856, 858, and network 860 are all shown ascommunicably connected to device 852 via wireless or wired connections.Additional client devices 864 (e.g., PDAs, mobile phones, control boxes)can connect to device 852 via network 860. Additional lighting fixtures862 can also connect to device 852 to receive control signals vianetwork 860. While only a few network topologies and/or configurationshave been shown in the Figures, it should be appreciated that variousdevices and modules of the system can be integrated or separated(connected via wireless connections, wired connections, networkconnections, and the like) and the system will may still fall under thescope of the invention defined by the claims appended hereto and/ortheir equivalents.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a flow diagram of a process 900 for controllinglighting devices is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Process900 is shown to include the step of recording and storing informationregarding previous lighting fixture and/or power usage (step 902). Therecording and storing step can include a variety of sub-steps including,but not limited to, gathering utility bills, measuring daily powerconsumption of the previous lighting over a period of time, averagingthe previous consumption, measuring power use by a single lightingfixture, and calculating to determine the power used by all lightingfixtures, etc. The output from step 902 may be some record or valueagainst which power use reductions can be quantified. Process 900 isfurther shown to include the step of providing and installing aplurality of new (or retrofit) lighting fixtures (step 904). Thelighting fixtures can be lighting fixtures as described above orotherwise. According to an exemplary embodiment, the lighting fixturesinclude or are retrofit with a transceiver configured to receive andrespond to control signals for turning the lighting circuitry (but notthe control electronics) off or on. According to another exemplaryembodiment, the lighting fixtures themselves include logic forresponding to control signals that include more complex information than“off/on” (e.g., signals with scheduling information, signals with sensedcondition attributes, etc.).

Referring still to FIG. 9, process 900 is shown to include providing auser interface for creating groups of lighting fixtures and/or forassociating lighting fixture groups with facility zones (step 906). Theuser interface, as previously described, can include a map or overheadview of a floor plan and icons for the various lighting fixtures servingthe facility. Users can group the lighting fixtures via a point andclick activity or otherwise. Input received by the user interface can bestored for use by the system and other user interfaces (e.g., schedulinguser interfaces) of the system can be updated accordingly. Using thesame or a different user interface, a first and second group of lightingfixtures can be associated with different facility zones (step 908).Process 900 is further shown to include the step of providing a userinterface for configuring an algorithm for the first group of lightingfixtures (step 910) and the step of providing a user interface forconfiguring an algorithm for the second group of lighting fixtures (step911). Steps 910 and 911 can use graphical user interfaces such as thosedescribed with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 or can use any other suitableuser interface and collection of user interface elements (e.g.,displays, LEDs, buttons, switches, etc.). Based on the input receivedvia the user interface(s), an algorithm implemented by a control modulecan determine whether to provide a control signal based on a time of dayschedule or a sensed facility condition (step 912). Step 912 can includeany number of sensor information gathering steps, condition checkingactivities, and/or scheduling activities. For example, step 912 caninclude the step of receiving motion sensor information, receivingcarbon dioxide sensor information, and comparing the readings to athreshold to make a decision regarding whether the space is occupied.Based on the determination(s) of step 912, the system can provide thecontrol signal to a data communications interface for furthercommunication to the lighting fixtures (step 914). The communication maybe wired or wireless and can be sent to a master transceiver forbroadcasting or relaying to other lighting fixtures.

Process 900 is further shown to include the step of quantifying areduction in power obtained by providing (e.g., providing in step 904)and intelligently controlling (e.g., controlling in steps 910, 914) thenew (or retrofit) lighting fixtures (step 916). The quantification cancompare current power usage for the new lighting fixtures to metricsrecorded and stored in step 902, compare recent power usage, averagerecent power usage, consider actual power usage on a minute-by-minutebasis, gather usage information from a utility company, gather usageinformation from a utility billing system, prompt the user for utilitybilling information, multiply a new daily power usage by the number ofdays in a year, multiply the power usage by a power cost, and conductany additional or alternative sub-steps for quantifying the differencein power consumption or cost between the old lighting system and the newlighting system with control algorithm(s). Indicia of the quantificationcan then be stored in a memory device and/or displayed on an electronicdisplay (step 918). It should be appreciated that other outputactivities are also possible (e.g., generating a graph, generating a“real-time” counter, ticker or dial, generating a detailed report,e-mailing a report, etc.).

The foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention havebeen presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It isnot intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the preciseform disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in lightof the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of theinvention. The functionality described may be distributed among modulesthat differ in number and distribution of functionality from thosedescribed herein. Additionally, the order of execution of the functionsmay be changed depending on the embodiment. The embodiments were chosenand described in order to explain the principles of the invention and aspractical applications of the invention to enable one skilled in the artto utilize the invention in various embodiments and with variousmodifications as suited to the particular use contemplated. It isintended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claimsappended hereto and their equivalents.

It should be noted that “electrically coupled” or “coupled” can meandirectly or indirectly coupled, according to various exemplaryembodiments. For example, in embodiments where sensors are electricallycoupled to the control module, the sensors can be directly wired to thecontrol module with no components that substantially change the signallocated between the sensor and the control module; in other embodimentsthe signals sent to the sensors may be provided to one or manycomponents between the sensors and the control module and the sensorsand the control module can still be considered electrically coupled(indirectly). Similarly, any data communications via a wirelessconnection can occur directly or indirectly via a network, relay node,booster node, or any other device.

The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied orre-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Anymeans-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures describedherein as performing the recited function and not only structuralequivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions,modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design,operating configuration and arrangement of the preferred and otherexemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of theinventions as expressed herein.

1. A controller for controlling lighting in a facility provided by aplurality of lighting fixtures configured for wireless communications,the controller comprising: a data communications interface communicatingwith at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures; and a controlmodule configured to provide a control signal to the data communicationsinterface for communicating to the at least one of the plurality oflighting fixtures and for turning off the plurality of lighting fixturesaccording to an algorithm that generates the control signal based on atleast one of a time of day and a sensed condition relating to use of thefacility, wherein the control module is further configured to quantify areduction in power obtained by controlling the plurality of lightingfixtures according to the algorithm.
 2. The controller of claim 1,wherein the controller is a master controller for the plurality oflighting fixtures.
 3. The controller of claim 1, further comprising: auser interface for receiving programming inputs from a user andconfigured to provide the inputs to the control module.
 4. Thecontroller of claim 3, wherein the user interface allows the user tomanually control the behavior of the lighting fixtures.
 5. Thecontroller of claim 4, wherein the user interface is configured toprovide at least one user interface element for allowing the user tospecify which of providing the control signal based on time of day andproviding the control signal based on a sensed condition relating to useof the facility to use by the algorithm.
 6. The controller of claim 5,wherein the user interface is configured to provide at least one userinterface element for allowing the user to override the algorithm. 7.The controller of claim 6, wherein the user interface is configured toprovide at least one user interface element for allowing the user tocontrol at least a second group of lighting fixtures in addition to afirst group of lighting fixtures formed by the plurality of lightingfixtures, and wherein the algorithm applied to the first group oflighting fixtures can also be applied to the second group of lightingfixtures.
 8. The controller of claim 7, wherein the user interfaceelement is at least one of a switch, a touch screen area, a button, anda hyperlink, and wherein the user may select a time duration for theoverride using the user interface.
 9. The controller of claim 7, whereinthe user interface is further configured to allow the user to adjust thealgorithm applied to the first group of lighting fixtures relative tothe algorithm applied to the second group of lighting fixtures.
 10. Thecontroller of claim 9, wherein the user interface is configured to allowthe user to build the first and second groups of lighting fixtures byrelating device identifiers associated with the lighting fixtures to afirst group identifier for the first group and a second group identifierfor the second group.
 11. The controller of claim 10, wherein the userinterface is a touch screen physically and electrically coupled to thecontrol module and wherein the touch screen provides the at least oneuser interface element via a graphical user interface displayed on thetouch screen.
 12. The controller of claim 11, wherein the graphical userinterface shows a representation a facility floor plan and wherein thegraphical user interface is configured to allow the user to divide thefloor plan into one or more zones and to associate at least one of thefirst group and the second group with the one or more zones.
 13. Amethod for controlling lighting in a facility provided by a plurality oflighting fixtures configured for wireless communications, the methodcomprising: determining whether to provide a control signal to at leastone of the plurality of lighting fixtures according to an algorithm thatgenerates the control signal based on at least one of a time of day anda sensed condition relating to use of the facility; providing thecontrol signal to a data communications interface for communication tothe at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures; and quantifyinga reduction in power obtained by controlling the plurality of lightingfixtures according to the algorithm; and storing indicia of thereduction in power in a memory device, displaying indicia of thereduction in power on an electronic display, or storing indicia of thereduction in power in the memory device and displaying indicia of thereduction in power on the electronic display.
 14. The method of claim13, further comprising: providing the plurality of lighting fixtures;installing the plurality of lighting fixtures; and creating at least afirst group of lighting fixtures and a second group of lighting fixturesfrom the plurality of lighting fixtures.
 15. The method of claim 14,further comprising: providing a user interface configured to allow theconfiguration of the first group of lighting fixtures and the secondgroup of lighting fixtures, wherein the configuration specifies which ofcontrol based on time of day and a sensed condition to use by the firstgroup of lighting fixtures and the second group of lighting fixtures.16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: manually controlling thefirst group of lighting fixtures and the second group of lightingfixtures via the user interface.
 17. The method of claim 16, furthercomprising: adjusting the composition of the first group of lightingfixtures and the second group of lighting fixtures via the userinterface.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: setting adifferent activity for the algorithm via input received from the userinterface, wherein the input comprises: (a) selection of a first modefor the first group of lighting fixtures during a first time period, (b)selection of a second mode for the first group of lighting fixturesduring a second time period, and (c) selection of an override conditionfor at least one of the first mode and the second mode.
 19. The methodof claim 13, further comprising: electrically coupling a first wirelesstransceiver to one of the plurality of lighting fixtures to configurethe plurality of lighting fixtures for the wireless communication,wherein the wireless communication is bi-directional.
 20. The method ofclaim 19, wherein the first wireless transceiver is wired to the datacommunication interface or wirelessly coupled to the data communicationsinterface; and wherein the first wireless transceiver is a mastertransceiver for the plurality of lighting fixtures, each of theplurality of lighting fixtures having a wireless transceiver forreceiving control signals via a wireless network formed by the firstwireless transceiver and the wireless transceivers of the plurality oflighting fixtures.
 21. A system for controlling lighting in a facility,the system comprising: a plurality of lighting fixtures configured forwireless communications; a data communications interface communicatingwith at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures, wherein the atleast one of the plurality of lighting fixtures communicates with atleast a second of the plurality of lighting fixtures via wirelesscommunications; and a control module configured to provide a controlsignal to the data communications interface for communicating to the atleast one of the plurality of lighting fixtures and for turning off theplurality of lighting fixtures according to an algorithm that generatesthe control signal based on at least one of a time of day and a sensedcondition relating to use of the facility, wherein the control module isfurther configured to quantify a reduction in power obtained bycontrolling the plurality of lighting fixtures according to thealgorithm.
 22. The system of claim 21, wherein turning off the pluralityof lighting fixtures comprises turning off the light emitting circuitryof the lighting device while continuing to power the communicationscircuitry of the lighting device.
 23. The system of claim 21, whereinthe at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures includes a mastertransceiver wired to the data communications interface, the mastertransceiver configured for bi-directional wireless communication withtransceivers coupled to other of the plurality of lighting fixtures;wherein the at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures includesa radio frequency transceiver for bi-directional wireless communicationwith the data communications interface.
 24. The system of claim 21,further comprising: an occupancy sensor for determining if a zone of thefacility lit by the plurality of lighting fixtures is occupied, theoccupancy sensor configured to provide a signal indicating occupancy toat least one of the data communications interface, the at least one ofthe plurality of lighting fixtures, and the control module, wherein theoccupancy sensor is physically coupled to the at least one of theplurality of lighting fixtures, wherein the occupancy sensor iselectrically coupled to a transmitter configured to provide the signalindicating occupancy to at least one of the data communicationsinterface, the at least one of the plurality of lighting fixtures, andthe control module via radio frequency communications.
 25. The system ofclaim 21, wherein at least one of the plurality of lighting fixturesincludes a transceiver which has been retrofit to the lighting fixtureby placement in series with the power input for the lighting fixture.26. The system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of lighting fixturesincludes a transceiver and logic circuit, the logic circuit configuredto report a condition of the lighting fixture back to the control modulevia wireless communications, wherein the condition is at least one of:(a) a state change from ‘on’ to ‘off’ or from ‘off’ to ‘on’, (b) a totalof time in the ‘on’ state or the ‘off’ state, (c) a log of lightingstate changes including a time the state change occurred; wherein thecondition is reported to the control module upon receipt of a querysignal sent from the control module via the data communicationsinterface.
 27. The system of claim 21, wherein the data communicationsinterface is also configured to communicate with another type ofbuilding component in addition to lighting fixtures, wherein the anothertype of building component includes at least one of a fan, an airhandling unit, and a heating system; and wherein the control moduleselectively provides sensed condition based control and time of daybased control to the building component via the data communicationsinterface.